calypso

noun (1)

ca·lyp·so | \ kə-ˈlip-(ˌ)sō

Definition of calypso

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 capitalized : a sea nymph in Homer's Odyssey who keeps Odysseus seven years on the island of Ogygia

2 plural calypsos [ New Latin, genus name, probably from Latin ] : a bulbous bog orchid (Calypso bulbosa) of northern regions bearing a single white to purplish flower

calypso

noun (2)

plural calypsos or calypsoes

Definition of calypso (Entry 2 of 2)

: a style of music originating in the West Indies, marked by lively duple meter, and having lyrics that are often improvised and usually satirize local personalities and events also : a song in this style

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Did You Know?

A type of folk song, calypso is originally from Trinidad but is also sung elsewhere in the Caribbean. The calypso tradition dates to the early 19th century. The subject of a calypso text, which is usually witty and satiric, is an event of political or social importance, and the lyric often incorporates Spanish, Creole, and African phrases. The exaggeration of local speech patterns is matched by an offbeat rhythm. Favorite accompanying instruments are the shak-shak (maraca), cuatro (a string instrument), and tamboo-bamboo (bamboo poles of various lengths struck on the ground), and steel drums.

History and Etymology for calypso

Noun (1)

Latin, from Greek Kalypsō

Noun (2)

Trinidad English, alteration of kaiso, perhaps ultimately of African origin; akin to eastern Caribbean English caliso, cariso satirical song

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More Definitions for calypso

calypso

noun

ca·lyp·so | \ kə-ˈlip-sō

plural calypsos

Kids Definition of calypso

: a lively folk song or style of singing of the West Indies

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calypso

Definition of calypso

Other Words from calypso

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First Known Use of calypso

History and Etymology for calypso

Kids Definition of calypso

calypso

Definition of calypso

Other Words from calypso

Did You Know?

First Known Use of calypso

History and Etymology for calypso

Kids Definition of calypso

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